As we continue to follow trends in the digital age, the Internet shows us how women around the world face varying issues of oppression and violence. This chaos can cause overwhelming feelings of uncertainty and fear, especially for women and people of color. Self-care is the foundation of a healthy approach to activism.Â
Women of color are pioneers in the self-care industry. From normalizing bonnet usage to creating creams and gels for thickly curled hair, WOC are behind products many people use daily. Here are five self-care brands owned by women of color you can support to promote intersectionality this Women’s History Month.
Founded by Desiree Verdejo, Hyper Skin sells solutions to hyperpigmentation for all cultures in serums, SPFs, cleansing gels, or masks. It focuses on underrepresented skin issues within marginalized communities with darker or more sensitive skin. Verdejo prides her brand on “centering real skin and realistic standards, and our hardworking formulas deliver real results.” Hyper Skin is accessible in popular stores like Sephora and Urban Outfitters.
Founded by Gabriela Hernandez after she immigrated from Argentina to the United States, Bésame Cosmetics creates love for timeless makeup. Hernandez’ brand has helped reimagine vintage-inspired style by embracing each era’s unique beauty techniques. Featured in trusted fashion magazines like Vogue and Cosmopolitan, Bésame offers fun quizzes to find your perfect shade of lipstick or blush to keep the past 100 years of makeup history alive.
Established by Taiwanese-American Amy Liu, Tower 28 makes products for people with sensitive skin who still love wearing makeup. Tower 28 avoids using toxic ingredients and tests products to verify their safety on skin conditions, like eczema, so that anybody can enjoy them. Their products include makeup for the whole face and skincare solutions to diverse issues.
Founded by Native American aesthetician Tara Tekahentakhwa, Niawen represents indigenous women’s needs through skincare, bodycare, and makeup. Niawen’s products include ingredients used in native skin traditions like corn, raspberries, and elderberry. Tekahentakhwa wanted to honor her Mohawk heritage by making her skincare more sacred.
Founded by Indian single mother Mira Kulkarni, Forest Essentials is an authentically Indian brand that follows the science of Ayurveda. Forest Essentials emphasizes factors like social responsibility and spirituality when caring for oneself. Their products include a wide variety of hair, body, makeup, and other wellness products, with an inclusion of Indian heritage.
By purchasing these products, you will be supporting women from different backgrounds while simultaneously treating yourself during Women’s History Month!